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A Magical Matric Dance Evening with Kelly

  • Writer: Ashley Chapman
    Ashley Chapman
  • 5 days ago
  • 3 min read

There’s something truly special about capturing a matric dance – it’s not just about the stunning outfits and elegant details, but also the joy, anticipation, and sense of celebration that comes with such an important milestone. Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Kelly and her friend, who was her date for the evening, and it was an experience filled with beauty, laughter, and elegance from start to finish.

Lifestyle photography in Cape Town.
Lifestyle photography in Cape Town.

Kelly looked breath-taking in her gown – a rose-gold, sequin masterpiece that shimmered with every movement. The intricate design, with its delicate patterns and flattering silhouette, was a showstopper. It perfectly balanced glamour with sophistication, ensuring she stood out in the most radiant way. As the sunlight streamed through the trees, the sequins on her dress reflected a warm, golden glow, almost as if the outfit was made for this exact moment. Paired with her elegant up-do, subtle earrings, and a natural yet striking makeup look, she was the definition of matric dance magic.


Her date complemented her look beautifully, dressed in a tailored black suit with a classic tie that added the perfect finishing touch. Together, they made such a stylish pair, the kind of duo you’d expect to see stepping out of a magazine spread. Beyond the fashion, though, what struck me most was how relaxed and natural they were in front of the camera. There was no stiffness or awkward posing – just genuine smiles, comfortable banter, and quiet moments of connection. It made my role so much easier, and so much more enjoyable, to simply capture the two of them being themselves.

The backdrop for this session was nothing short of magical. The private farm in Durbanville offered us the kind of setting photographers dream of: endless greenery, flowering plants, and tall trees that provided just the right amount of dappled light. There’s a certain charm in photographing on private land – it feels intimate and exclusive, allowing the couple to truly relax and enjoy the experience without distraction. The location also meant we could play with a variety of backgrounds, from soft garden paths lined with wildflowers to the elegance of the towering trees that framed our subjects perfectly.


One of my favourite highlights was photographing Kelly as she gracefully stepped out of a classic car. The moment felt cinematic – the timeless charm of the vehicle paired with her glittering gown created a scene that was equal parts vintage romance and modern glamour. The soft tones of the car’s interior complemented her dress beautifully, creating a cohesive and elegant frame that I know will be treasured for years to come.

Lifestyle photography in Cape Town.
Lifestyle photography in Cape Town.

Throughout the shoot, what struck me most was the energy. There was excitement in the air, the kind of youthful anticipation that only a matric dance can bring. For many, this evening marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, and capturing that transition – that blend of nostalgia and hope – is what makes these shoots so meaningful. Kelly and her date carried that energy so effortlessly, and I could see it in the little details: the way they laughed mid-pose, the subtle glances they exchanged, and the joy they radiated as they prepared to head off to their special evening.


Kelly and her friend were an absolute delight to work with, and I feel honoured to have documented this chapter in their story. Shoots like this remind me why I love photography so much – it’s not just about beautiful pictures, but about preserving milestones that hold incredible meaning. These photos are more than images; they’re a time capsule of youth, beauty, style, and the magic of new beginnings.


 
 
 

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©Ashley Chapman

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